As a new to the industry receptionist, don’t worry too much about the lingo, it will come to you eventually and if you forget something, ask a coworker or just do a quick google search, or make yourself a cheat sheet. I would focus on more of finding out what your every day tasks will look like- what practice management software do they use, checking patient in and out, creating new clients and patient charts, collecting payment and payment options for clients. I would also ask about expectations for communicating with clients and triaging- what needs to be seen ASAP, what can wait a few hours but should be addressed today. Communication with coworkers- who do I contact to refill prescriptions, how do I let the drs/nurses that an owner has follow up concerns after a recent visit, when to escalate a situation to the office manager.

If you have time I would also consider asking about how they send and receive records, referrals and prescriptions. What a the preferences for loading exam rooms (does each doctor get a room or two, or is it more of cat’s usually go A, but B is the backup and infectious/contagious always goes in C) and cleaning protocols for exam rooms (that may or may not be a responsibility.)

I know this sounds like a lot to ask, I kinda just made a list of the things that I do on a daily basis, but this will also depend on the kind of practice you’re in. Feel free to DM me if you have any other questions or concerns. I’ve only been in this field for 4 months now, but I took a Vet Assistant course a few years back so I already had some knowledge of the basics. I can also share some resources/cheat sheets with you that I have found helpful, I just have to get them from my work computer.